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Thy Strong Word reveals the light of our salvation in Christ through study of God’s Word, breaking our darkness with His redeeming light. Each weekday, two pastors fix our eyes on Jesus by considering Holy Scripture, verse by verse, in order to be strengthened in the Word and be equipped to faithfully serve in our daily vocations. Thy Strong Word is hosted by Rev. Dr. Phil Booe, pastor of St. John Lutheran Church of Luverne, MN, and graciously underwritten by the Lutheran Heritage Foundation.
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As John the Baptist declares Jesus to be the Lamb of God, two of his own followers, including Andrew, are drawn to Jesus and ask Him where He is staying. With a simple invitation—"Come and you will see"—Jesus begins gathering those who would become His closest companions. Andrew brings his brother, Simon Peter, and soon after, Philip and Nathanael …
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We encounter a stunning introduction to Jesus—He is not only the Word who was with God from the beginning, but the Word who is God. He is the Light breaking into a world of darkness, offering life and power to those who believe. And in a moment of profound revelation, John the Baptist points to Jesus, calling Him the Lamb of God who takes away the …
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How can Christians navigate the complex world of politics while staying true to their biblical values? On this special, First-Friday Free Text episode, tune in as Professor Joel Biermann and Pastor Booe explore how to engage in political discussions with grace and wisdom. This is an hour of insightful conversation and practical guidance on living o…
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On All Saints’ Day, a.k.a. The Feast of All Hallows, we dig deep into the significance of this important celebration in the Church. Pastor Brady Finnern comes on the show to discuss life after death from a biblical and pastoral perspective. What happens when believers die? What is it like in Heaven? Do unbelievers go straight to Hell? We’ll also ad…
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This third part of our special four-part All Hallows miniseries features Pastor Jon Furgeson, who completed his Ph.D. research in spiritual warfare. He comes on the program to discuss spiritual creatures: both benevolent (angels) and malevolent (demons). We explore how the popular depictions of these spiritual beings are often at odds with the trut…
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In part two of our four-part series on All Hallows, things get a bit eerie as we explore ghosts, hauntings, and the occult. We address popular beliefs about ghosts, compare them with biblical teachings, and consider what fascinates us about death. What are the proper and improper ways to honor the dead? Can ghost hunting, using Quija boards, and pe…
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We kick off this four-part “All Hallows Special” with a discussion surrounding the origins and modern practice of Hallowe’en. Is this spooky season really something for Christians to avoid? Does dressing up like Spiderman and going trick-or-treating mean that your child is participating in ancient pagan cultures? Although many have usurped this sea…
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Heaven— God’s final vision of heaven to John unfolds with the river of the water of life flowing from God’s throne and the tree of life bearing its eternal fruit, symbolizing abundance and healing. Jesus proclaims, "I am coming soon," offering an open invitation to all who thirst for His presence to come and receive freely. This message of hope is …
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Heaven and Earth— John sees a vision of a “new heaven and a new earth,” replacing the current, fallen creation. The holy city, the New Jerusalem, descends from heaven, and God takes up His dwelling place among His people. This future reality where God wipes away every tear, abolishes death, and eliminates sorrow and pain is a powerful image of hope…
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Earth and Heaven—Satan is bound for a thousand years as Christ reigns with His saints, but what does that mean? A literal thousand-year reign of Christ on earth or does it represent that Christ reigns now? Satan is described as chained, but he’s not inactive. Eventually, Satan is released but ultimately defeated and thrown into the lake of fire. Th…
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Heaven and Earth— Heaven rejoices over the fall of Babylon, symbolizing the ultimate defeat of evil. The marriage supper of the Lamb is joyously proclaimed, signifying the final union between Christ and His Church. As the vision continues, Jesus Christ, the King of Kings and Lord of Lords, appears in His full glory, riding a white horse. With power…
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Earth— A mighty angel descends from heaven, declaring the complete and final fall of Babylon, the great city, whose destruction marks the end of her worldly power. As Babylon collapses, the inhabitants of the earth mourn over the loss of her wealth, luxury, and splendor. Merchants, kings, and all who benefited from her trade stand at a distance, we…
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Earth— After the seventh bowl of God's wrath is poured out, John is shown a vivid and symbolic vision of the judgment of Babylon the Great, portrayed as a harlot seated upon a scarlet beast, full of blasphemous names and adorned in luxurious riches. Babylon's downfall is announced by an angel, and her destruction is mourned by the kings of the eart…
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Heaven and Earth— We encounter a striking image of the harvest: a reaping of both the righteous and the wicked. It is the final separation of those who belong to Christ and those who follow the beast. Then, seven angels are sent to unleash devastating plagues upon the earth. These judgments, symbolized by the bowls of God's wrath, strike at the reb…
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Mount Zion and Earth—The Lamb stands on Mount Zion with the 144,000 redeemed. Who are these 144,000? The answer may surprise you. Then, three angels proclaim eternal gospel messages, and the earth's harvest is reaped—both the righteous and the wicked. Knowing that a time of reckoning is coming, how does this motivate us to live righteously and shar…
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Earth—Two beasts arise: one from the sea and one from the earth, wielding power and deceiving many. They enforce the mark of the beast, controlling commerce and allegiance. Who do these beasts represent? The Antichrist? The Government? Both? In a world of deception and coercion, how do we remain faithful to God and discern truth from falsehood? The…
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Heaven and Earth—A cosmic conflict unfolds as a woman gives birth to a male child destined to rule, while a great red dragon seeks to devour him. Who is the woman? Who is the child? War breaks out in heaven, and the dragon is cast down to earth. Who is the dragon? Recognizing this spiritual warfare, how can we find strength in God's protection and …
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Jerusalem and Heaven—John is told to measure the temple, and two witnesses prophesy for 1,260 days before being killed and resurrected. The seventh trumpet sounds, declaring God's kingdom established. In anticipation of God's ultimate victory, how does this inspire us to bear witness boldly in the face of opposition? The Rev. Mark Loder, pastor of …
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Earth—A mighty angel descends with a little scroll open in his hand. John is instructed to eat the scroll, finding it sweet in his mouth but bitter in his stomach, symbolizing the mixed reactions to God's prophetic message. Are we prepared to faithfully receive and proclaim God's word, even when it brings both joy and sorrow? The Rev. Jason Wagner,…
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Earth—With the sounding of the fourth, fifth, sixth trumpets, demonic forces are unleashed: the sun and moon are affected resulting in partial darkness, then tormenting locusts and a devastating army bring suffering and death to many. Yet, despite these plagues, people refuse to repent. How does this passage challenge us to examine our hearts and t…
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Heavenly Realm—The seventh seal is opened, and silence fills heaven for half an hour. Seven angels are given trumpets, and as the first four sound, catastrophic events affect the earth, sea, rivers, and skies. In light of these impending judgments, are we attentive to the warnings and calls to repentance in our own lives? The Rev. Tysen Bibb, pasto…
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Earth and Heaven—Before the seventh seal is opened, 144,000 servants of God are sealed from the tribes of Israel. A great multitude from every nation stands before the throne, clothed in white robes, worshiping God and the Lamb. How does this vision of divine protection and universal salvation encourage us in our faith and mission? The Rev. David B…
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Heavenly Realm and Earth—As the Lamb opens the first six seals, judgments unfold on the earth: the Four Horsemen bring conquest, war, famine, and death; martyrs cry out for justice; and a great earthquake causes terror among all people. Faced with such revelations, how do we respond to God's sovereignty and justice in a troubled world? The Rev. Jim…
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This special episode examines the fascinating world of religious relics, focusing on the Shroud of Turin, from a Lutheran point of view. The discussion balances faith, history, and skepticism, questioning whether these artifacts are genuine holy heirlooms or simply surrounded by hype. With thought-provoking insights, this episode offers a Christian…
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Heavenly Realm, Throne Room—A sealed scroll in God's hand awaits someone worthy to open it. John weeps when none are found, but rejoices as the Lion of Judah, the Lamb who was slain, steps forward. All of heaven sings a new song, praising the Lamb's worthiness. Do we recognize Jesus as the only one worthy to reveal God's purposes and bring redempti…
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Heavenly Realm, Throne Room—John is taken up in the Spirit to witness the awe-inspiring throne room of God. Surrounded by twenty-four elders and four living creatures, worship resounds as they proclaim God's holiness and eternal glory. How does this vision of divine majesty inspire us to worship God more deeply in our own lives? The Rev. Roger Mull…
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Laodicea, Asia Minor—The Lord addresses the church in Laodicea, reproving them for their lukewarm faith—neither hot nor cold—and advising them to seek true riches and healing from Him. He stands at the door and knocks, inviting anyone who hears His voice to open the door. Is our faith fervent, or have we become complacent, missing the call of Chris…
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Sardis and Philadelphia, Asia Minor—Jesus is delivering critical messages to the churches in Sardis and Philadelphia. To Sardis, He warns of their reputation for being alive while being spiritually dead, urging them to wake up and strengthen what remains. To Philadelphia, He offers praise for their perseverance and promises an open door that no one…
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Pergamum and Thyatira, Asia Minor—The Lord is speaking to the believers in Pergamum and Thyatira, commending their faith yet warning against embracing false teachings and immoral practices. He calls them to repent and hold firmly to the truth, promising rewards to those who overcome. In a culture filled with conflicting messages, how vigilant are w…
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Ephesus and Smyrna, Asia Minor—Jesus is addressing the churches of Ephesus and Smyrna. To Ephesus, He acknowledges their hard work but urges them to return to their first love. To Smyrna, He offers encouragement amidst persecution, promising the crown of life to those who remain faithful. Are we, like Ephesus, in need of rekindling our passion, or …
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Patmos, Greece—John, exiled on Patmos, is experiencing a profound vision of Jesus Christ in His glory. The Lord reveals Himself as the Alpha and Omega, instructing John to write messages to the seven churches. This revelation underscores Christ's sovereignty and His intimate presence among His people. How does this powerful vision challenge us to d…
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Shrouded in mysterious visions of cosmic battles, plagues, and catastrophic events, the Apocalypse of St. John, or as it’s more commonly known--the Book of Revelation, paints a haunting picture of the end times. Cryptic symbols of beasts, the rise of the Antichrist, and the final judgment unfold with unsettling intensity, revealing the ultimate cla…
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Hosea has painted a powerful picture of Israel's betrayal through idolatry and unfaithfulness, with God calling Hosea to his own turbulent marriage as a metaphor. Chapters 13 and 14 bring this theme to a climax with a stern warning of God's judgment but also a tender call for repentance. God's righteous anger is balanced by His deep desire to heal …
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Jacob's journey and the deceit that marked his early life serve as a metaphor for Israel's current unfaithfulness. The prophet Hosea warns that just as Jacob wrestled with God and sought His favor, Israel must return to the Lord with humility and repentance. God reminds them of their past deliverance from Egypt, yet their continued reliance on idol…
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In a refreshing turn, Hosea prophesies a beautiful yet heart-wrenching oracle from God that highlights His love, compassion, and enduring commitment to Israel despite their persistent rebellion. This chapter contrasts God’s fatherly love with the people's rejection of Him, leading to judgment but also eventual restoration. The Rev. David Boisclair,…
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Israel is compared to a lush vine that has grown fruit for itself, but its abundance has led to greater idolatry and corruption. The people have divided hearts, making empty promises and worshiping false gods. Judgment is coming, and they will face destruction for their wickedness and misplaced trust in human leaders and military power. Hosea calls…
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Hosea brings a sobering message to Israel, warning of the consequences of turning away from God. The prophet foretells exile, destruction, and the loss of joy, as their disobedience leads to divine judgment. Even their offerings and religious rituals are rejected, and the once fertile land will become barren. It's a powerful reminder of the cost of…
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Israel's rebellion leads to harsh consequences as God warns of the coming judgment. Despite their offerings and sacrifices, the people have turned to idols, trusting in their own ways instead of God's. The chapter emphasizes the emptiness of their actions and the inevitable destruction that follows disobedience. Their misplaced alliances and relian…
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God laments Israel's ongoing sin and corruption, as the people turn to deceit, adultery, and alliances with foreign nations instead of seeking Him. Their leaders are compared to an overheated oven, consumed by their passions and pride. Despite their downfall, they refuse to repent, and their cries remain insincere. Israel’s reliance on foreign alli…
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Hosea pleads with the people to return to God, recognizing His power to heal and restore after their suffering. However, God’s frustration is clear as He condemns their shallow devotion, like a mist that fades with the dawn. Despite outward rituals, Israel and Judah are mired in sin, deceit, and violence, prioritizing sacrifices over genuine love a…
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God charges Israel with unfaithfulness, condemning their lack of truth, mercy, and knowledge of Him. The land suffers because of the people's moral corruption, as they turn to false gods and engage in idolatry. The priests are singled out for leading the nation astray, exploiting the people for personal gain. As judgment looms, God's anger burns ag…
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Through Hosea, God speaks tenderly to Israel, promising restoration and renewed relationship after a period of judgment. He vows to lead them into the wilderness and transform their sorrow into hope, offering forgiveness and a fresh covenant, pointing forward to Jesus. Ultimately, the faithfulness of Israel—meaning all of God’s people, will be rest…
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God speaks through the prophet Hosea, addressing Israel’s unfaithfulness in vivid imagery. He likens the nation to an unfaithful wife, chasing after false gods and forgetting the covenant with Him. Despite the people's betrayal, God warns of coming judgment, stripping away their prosperity and exposing their shame. Yet, underlying the harsh words i…
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Get ready for the debut of "Headlines,” a fun and thought-provoking twist for Free-Text First Fridays. In this episode, the guest pastor faces the challenge of guessing which headline is real and which ones are the host's creations. Each round sparks deeper conversations about pressing issues in today's news and how the Bible offers guidance on the…
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Hosea opens with the prophet being commanded by God to marry Gomer, a promiscuous woman, as a living symbol of Israel’s unfaithfulness. Their children are given prophetic names that reflect God’s judgment—signifying the broken relationship between God and His people. Yet even amid these harsh warnings of destruction and rejection, God hints at futu…
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Hosea tells the powerful story of a prophet commanded to marry an unfaithful woman, Gomer, as a living symbol of God’s boundless love for Israel despite its repeated betrayals. Through heartbreak and redemption, Hosea’s marriage becomes a vivid portrayal of how deeply God desires His people to return to Him, even when they chase after idols. Packed…
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A final, powerful vision of judgment and restoration unfolds as Amos reveals the fate of Israel. The message is clear: God's wrath is unavoidable, with no place for the guilty to hide. Yet, amid the destruction, a promise of hope emerges: the fallen house of David will be restored, and a time of abundance and peace will return. Amos’s prophecy ends…
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The prophet Amos delivers a powerful vision of Israel's impending doom, symbolized by a basket of ripe fruit signifying that the nation's end is near. God declares that He will no longer overlook Israel's injustices, predicting a time of dark mourning and spiritual famine, where people will search in vain for His word. The Rev. James Helms, Jr., pa…
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The prophet receives visions of judgment—locusts, fire, and a plumb line—each symbolizing God's impending punishment on Israel. While Amos intercedes and God relents twice, the plumb line vision marks the point of no return. When Amaziah, the priest of Bethel, tries to silence Amos, he boldly declares God's judgment on Israel and Amaziah's househol…
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A powerful warning is issued to those who live in comfort and luxury while neglecting the suffering around them. Amos condemns the complacency of Israel's leaders, who bask in their wealth and security, ignoring the looming judgment. This chapter highlights the coming devastation as a consequence of their arrogance and the nation's moral decay. The…
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